Under Geir Olav Melingen leadership, Benchmark Genetics has reinforced its position as a global leader in aquaculture genetics, providing high-quality genetic solutions to salmon, shrimp, and genetic programs worldwide.
Benchmark Genetics
Benchmark Genetics has announced that its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Geir Olav Melingen, has decided to step down from his position. The Norwegian fish genetics firm has also confirmed that he will remain with the company during a transition period to advise the new CEO.
Before being appointed CEO on April 1, 2025, when the company was sold to Novo Holdings, Melingen was Head of the Genetics division at Benchmark Holdings. He has been with the Benchmark Group for a total of six years. For the time being, Aleks Engel, a partner at Novo Holdings, will assume the role of interim CEO.
In November 2025, Novo Holdings announced an agreement to acquire Benchmark Genetics from Benchmark Holdings plc for an enterprise value of up to £260 million. Then the sale to the life science investment firm was completed on the last day of March.
"It has been a privilege to lead Benchmark Genetics through an exciting phase of growth and transition. I believe strongly in the company's future and the potential of its partnership with Novo Holdings," expressed Melingen.
Additionally, Engel said: "On behalf of Novo Holdings and the Board, I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication, and we look forward to working closely with the team during this transition."
Just ten days ago, Benchmark Genetics announced it has appointed Jon Crowther as its new Chief Financial Officer, describing the move as "marking a new chapter in the company’s financial leadership as it begins life as an independent company under Novo Holdings".